Noise control reduces unwanted sound through strategic mitigation techniques in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Sound Control Methods Transform Environment
Source-Path-Receiver Model Shapes Control Strategy
The Bolt and Ingard model tackles noise through three key elements: reducing noise at its source, blocking its path, and protecting receivers. Engineers use sound insulation with dense materials like brick and concrete to block transmission, while porous materials absorb and convert sound energy into heat.
Building Design Creates Quiet Spaces
Modern architectural solutions incorporate specialized walls, floors, and ceilings to minimize sound transfer. Buildings use glazing, perforated metals, and strategic caulking to maintain quiet interiors around 45 dBA. Two main types of sound transmission exist in buildings:
- Airborne sound moving through walls
- Impact sound traveling through building structures
Transportation Noise Demands Multiple Solutions
Roadway noise control combines several approaches:
- Strategic urban planning and road design
- Noise barriers that can reduce sound by 10 decibels
- Speed control keeping vehicles at 30-60 km/h
- Surface pavement selection affecting sound levels
Industry Standards Protect Workers
OSHA Sets Safety Thresholds
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires controls when noise exceeds 90 dBA over 8 hours. Impact noises must stay below 140 dB peak levels.
European Guidelines Provide Stricter Limits
The European Parliament mandates:
- Lower exposure limits at 80 dBA for 8 hours
- Upper limits at 85 dBA for 8 hours
- Peak exposure caps at 140 dB
Modern Solutions Address Varied Environments
Commercial Spaces Embrace Technology
Restaurants and businesses now use digital processors with microphone arrays to control noise levels in different areas. Sound-absorbing materials like fiberglass and recycled denim serve dual purposes as decorative elements.
Residential Solutions Become Accessible
Home recording studios and theater rooms increasingly use acoustic panels and bass traps. These solutions often repurpose industrial-grade materials with fabric wrapping for domestic use.
The field continues to evolve with new materials and digital technologies making quiet environments more achievable across all settings.
Citations:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noise_control
Noise control or noise mitigation is a set of strategies to reduce noise pollution or to reduce the impact of that noise, whether outdoors or indoors.
